Chad Condemns Sudanese General’s Threat to Bomb Airports, Warns of Retaliation
The Chadian government has strongly condemned recent threats made by Sudanese General Yasser El Atta, who declared that Chad’s N’Djamena and Amdjarass airports were “legitimate targets” in Sudan’s ongoing conflict.
General El Atta, the deputy commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), made the statement in a video released on March 23, alleging that the airports were being used by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to launch attacks against Sudan. His remarks have sparked alarm in Chad, raising concerns about a potential escalation of the war beyond Sudan’s borders.
In a press release issued the same day, Chad’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the statement as a direct threat to the country’s security and sovereignty. The government characterized El Atta’s remarks as “irresponsible” and warned that any attempt to attack Chadian territory would be met with a firm and immediate response.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Chad firmly condemns these reckless statements, which, if followed by action, would amount to a declaration of war. Such rhetoric risks triggering a dangerous escalation in the region,” the statement read.
The ministry recalled that for over six decades, successive Sudanese governments had sought to destabilize Chad through various means, including supporting armed rebellions and extremist groups like Boko Haram. Despite these challenges, Chad has consistently exercised restraint, relying on its security forces to protect its territory.
“Thanks to divine providence and the determination of our defense and security forces, our country remains resilient,” the statement added.
Chad reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality in Sudan’s internal conflict and emphasized its role as a regional peace mediator. The government stated that it had taken multiple diplomatic initiatives, under Egyptian mediation, to facilitate dialogue between the Sudanese junta and other parties in the conflict.
“The ongoing war in Sudan is an internal matter that should be resolved by the warring parties themselves,” the statement emphasized. “Chad remains committed to supporting all efforts that lead to a peaceful resolution.”
Additionally, the government highlighted Chad’s humanitarian efforts, noting that it has welcomed and continues to host hundreds of thousands of Sudanese refugees fleeing the violence. It described this as a major burden on Chad’s resources but reiterated its commitment to regional stability and solidarity with the Sudanese people.
The Chadian government urged Sudanese leaders, including General El Atta, to abandon aggressive rhetoric and focus on achieving an immediate ceasefire. It called on all parties in Sudan’s conflict to engage in constructive dialogue to find a lasting solution.
“Instead of making baseless threats, General El Atta and other Sudanese leaders must concentrate on ending hostilities and working towards peace,” the statement read.
Finally, Chad reaffirmed its right to self-defense, stating that any act of aggression against its territory would be met with a strong and lawful response, in accordance with international law.
“Chad will not tolerate any attack on its sovereignty. We stand ready to defend our nation with all necessary force,” the ministry warned.
The government called on Chadian civil society, political parties, and citizens to unite in condemning any external threats to the country’s stability.
The growing tensions between Chad and Sudan come at a time when both countries are grappling with internal security challenges. Sudan has been engulfed in a brutal war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 2023. The conflict has displaced millions and raised fears of regional spillover.
Chad, which shares a long and porous border with Sudan, has been a key player in humanitarian and diplomatic efforts to mitigate the crisis. However, the latest threats from Sudanese military leadership risk straining relations further and potentially dragging Chad into the conflict.
Observers warn that if Sudanese forces attempt any military action against Chad, it could provoke a broader regional confrontation, drawing in neighboring countries and international actors.
